At high altitudes, when capillary pressure becomes too high,
A)fluid filters out of the blood and collects in the alveoli (pulmonary edema).
B)blood pressure decreases.
C)breathing and heart rates decrease.
D)blood pH increases to pathologic levels.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When capillary pressure becomes too high at high altitudes, fluid can filter out of the blood and collect in the alveoli, leading to pulmonary edema. This can be a potentially life-threatening condition. Blood pressure may also decrease in response, but this is not the primary effect of high capillary pressure at altitude. Breathing and heart rates may increase, not decrease, in response to the lower oxygen availability at higher altitudes. Blood pH may also decrease, not increase, due to respiratory alkalosis caused by hyperventilation.

At High Altitudes, When Capillary Pressure Becomes Too High